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The church of Santa Cruz is located on the site where the Convent of St. Thomas (Dominican Friars) was built. The convent was founded in 1583 by Friar Diego de Chaves who was the confessor of Philip II until 1836.

In 1626 Count-Duke of Olivares gave his support as the main patron to the convent and in 1635 the first stone for a new church was placed. The church and the convent burnt in 1652. It was rebuilding in 1660 but unfortunately the main altar collapsed in 1726 burying over 80 people. Furthermore, in 1876 a new fire completely destroyed the temple.

The current church was first built in 1889 under the leadership of Francisco de Cubas and Gonzalez Montes (Marquis de Cubas) helped by Miguel de Olavaria. However, works stopped due to the lack of financial resources. The works were resumed in 1899 with the help of popular contribution and the church was completed in 1902.

The temple is now in High Gothic brick and Colmenar white stone. The main facade features a pointed arch, topped by a triangular pediment with a cross. The front entrance displays a work called 'Apotheosis of the Cross' by Aniceto Marine. Above this main entrance there is large stained glass window in the shape of a rosette and a large clock. The church has eight side chapels.

Possibly the most striking feature is the 80 meters high tower.

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Detail of the stained glass window.